Kerala Literature Festival 2025: A Global Celebration of Ideas

Kerala Literature Festival 2025: A Global Celebration of Ideas

By Author

Published on December 31, 2024

The Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) 2025, Asia’s largest literary event, is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with its rich confluence of culture, literature, and intellectual discourse. Scheduled to take place from January 23 to 26, 2025, in Kozhikode, Kerala, the festival promises to be a monumental celebration, uniting voices from across the globe in an unparalleled exchange of ideas.

This year’s edition marks a historic partnership with France, the guest country for KLF 2025. Renowned for its profound literary traditions and contributions to art, culture, and intellectual thought, France will bring a distinct vibrancy to the event. With dedicated sessions exploring French classics, contemporary thinkers, and creative expressions, the collaboration underscores the festival’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue. France’s Ambassador to India, H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership, emphasizing the significance of celebrating French creativity on a global platform like KLF.

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The festival's distinguished lineup of over 500 speakers from 15 countries reflects its global stature. Among the luminaries gracing the event are Nobel laureates, Booker Prize winners, and celebrated intellectuals. Esteemed names such as Dr. Venki Ramakrishnan, Shashi Tharoor, Ramachandra Guha, and Jeet Thayil will join forces with international literary figures like Jenny Erpenbeck, Paul Lynch, and Georgi Gospodinov to delve into a wide spectrum of topics. Renowned Indian actor Naseeruddin Shah and actress-director Ratna Pathak will add a cinematic dimension, further broadening the festival’s appeal.

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KLF 2025 will also feature a remarkable blend of literature and music, offering performances by maestros such as flutist Hariprasad Chaurasia, violin virtuoso Dr. L. Subramaniam, and vocalists Ustad Mukhtyar Ali and Priya Purushothaman. Their artistry will harmonize with the intellectual exchanges, creating an immersive cultural experience for attendees.

The festival’s spirit of inclusivity shines through its diverse roster of speakers, which includes historians like William Dalrymple, economists such as Nobel laureate Esther Duflo, and storytellers like Durjoy Dutta. Notable international voices, including Philippe Claudel, Mariko Shinju, and Sophie Mackintosh, will share perspectives that bridge literature, history, and environmentalism. These voices, drawn from various disciplines and cultures, underscore the event's ethos of celebrating diversity in thought and expression.

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KLF 2025 is more than a literary event; it is a meeting ground for global minds. From intellectual giants to emerging talents, the festival provides a platform for the exchange of ideas, collaboration, and inspiration. As Ravi Deecee, Chief Facilitator of the Kerala Literature Festival, aptly stated, the event aspires to be a beacon for creativity and dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the world through the transformative power of words.

With its visionary programming, illustrious lineup, and the addition of France as the guest country, KLF 2025 is set to elevate its stature as a premier cultural gathering. As anticipation builds, the festival beckons lovers of literature, culture, and art to Kozhikode for an unforgettable celebration of human creativity and intellectual pursuit.

For more information, visit www.keralaliteraturefestival.com.


Wyndham to Debut Ramada Brand in Vythiri, Kerala with New Hotel Launch

Wyndham to Debut Ramada Brand in Vythiri, Kerala with New Hotel Launch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 2, 2025

In a significant boost to Kerala’s flourishing tourism sector, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has partnered with developer Asok Thirikkoth to introduce a new property, Ramada by Wyndham Wayanad Vythiri, set to open in 2026. The 52-room upscale hotel will rise amidst the lush green landscape of Vythiri, a region rapidly emerging as a hotspot for wellness and eco-tourism.

Owned by Asok Thirikkoth, the upcoming hotel will bring the globally trusted Ramada brand to one of South India’s most scenic destinations. Once open, it will offer modern, thoughtfully designed guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a spa, meeting spaces, and a host of amenities tailored for leisure and business travellers alike.

“We are proud to bring the globally respected Ramada brand to Vythiri, a region that is fast becoming a major hub for wellness and eco-tourism,” said Asok Thirikkoth, owner of the property. “This collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts reinforces our commitment to developing high-quality hospitality experiences that complement Wayanad’s natural offerings. We are confident this hotel will play a pivotal role in enriching the region’s tourism landscape.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added, “Bringing the Ramada brand to Wayanad marks an important step in our strategy to expand across India’s key leisure destinations. Our collaboration with Mr. Thirikkoth reflects our shared vision of delivering quality hospitality experiences in emerging tourism hubs, and further reinforces our presence in South India.”

The addition of this property underlines Wyndham’s focused approach to expanding in India’s high-potential tier-2 and tier-3 cities, particularly in leisure destinations that are experiencing a rising demand for trusted international hotel brands.

With the introduction of Ramada by Wyndham Wayanad Vythiri, both Wyndham and Asok Thirikkoth aim to offer a world-class hospitality experience that celebrates the region’s natural charm while meeting global standards of comfort and service.


Fairfield by Marriott Expands in Jaipur with New Hotel on Tonk Road

Fairfield by Marriott Expands in Jaipur with New Hotel on Tonk Road

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 2, 2025

Fairfield by Marriott, a part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has officially opened Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road, marking a significant addition to Jaipur’s growing hospitality landscape. Located in the heart of the Pink City, the hotel offers a seamless mix of modern comfort, functional design, and warm hospitality, ideal for today’s value-seeking travellers.

Situated just 6 km from Jaipur International Airport and 8 km from the railway station, the hotel provides easy access to popular tourist spots including Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and City Palace, along with local bazaars and heritage streets. This makes it a convenient base for both business and leisure stays.

“Fairfield by Marriott is one of the fastest-growing brands in our select-service portfolio,” said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President South Asia, Marriott International. “With this opening, we’re deepening our presence in high-potential markets like Jaipur and bringing Fairfield’s warm, inviting experience to more destinations in India.”

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The hotel offers 115 thoughtfully designed rooms that focus on simplicity, featuring plush bedding, ergonomic workspaces, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Large windows provide stunning views of Jaipur’s skyline, while the public spaces reflect the brand’s signature welcoming aesthetic with open layouts and natural light.

A major highlight is Vista 20, the all-day dining restaurant located on the 20th floor, offering a curated menu of international and Indian dishes alongside picturesque views of the city. A well-stocked bar adds to the relaxed atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a day of meetings or sightseeing.

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The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness centre and a spacious, pillar-less ballroom spread across 3,000 sq. ft., with an additional 1,000 sq. ft. pre-function area. These flexible event spaces make it suitable for corporate gatherings, weddings, and special occasions.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests to Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road,” said Gautam Chhabra, Hotel Manager. “Whether you're here for business, celebrations, or exploring Jaipur, we offer comfort, convenience, and a truly memorable experience.”

With this opening, Fairfield by Marriott continues its mission to provide dependable, value-driven stays across India, especially in culturally vibrant cities like Jaipur.


Taj Expands Footprint with New Signing in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh

Taj Expands Footprint with New Signing in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2025

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality firm, has announced the signing of a new Taj-branded hotel in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh. This brownfield project marks the brand's strategic expansion into a serene, relatively unexplored hill station in the Sirmaur district.

The upcoming 120-key Taj Naina Tikker will offer uninterrupted views of the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range. The resort will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, bar, and a lobby lounge. For events and celebrations, it will include a spacious 4,000 sq. ft. banquet hall, meeting rooms, and pre-function areas. Wellness facilities such as a heated pool, gym, spa, health club, and activity centre aim to enhance the experience for both leisure and group travellers.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice PresidentReal Estate & Development, IHCL, stated, “Naina Tikker represents a unique opportunity for the Taj brand to mark its presence in a relatively unexplored part of Himachal Pradesh... It is poised to become a sought-after destination for leisure, MICE and social celebrations.”

Located amidst protected forests, Naina Tikker is a tranquil destination known for its pristine beauty, spiritual heritage, and vibrant biodiversity. With landmarks like the Mata Naina Tikker shrine and Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple, the area holds strong appeal for both spiritual and nature-loving travellers.

Mr. Sachin Kapoor and Ms. Sagarika Kapoor of Micro Turners Group, the hotel’s development partner, said, “We are excited to partner with IHCL for another project and bring the iconic Taj brand to Naina Tikker. This collaboration will redefine luxury hospitality in the region.”

With this addition, IHCL will have a total of 13 hotels in Himachal Pradesh, including eight currently under development, further strengthening its foothold in the North Indian hospitality market and forming a travel circuit across Chandigarh, Chail, Theog, and Dehradun.

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